Matters Overview

A new Matter is opened every time the law firm takes on a client's case or file. Each new matter is allocated a unique identifying matter number. Generally the matter number will be in the format 11-1053. The last 3 to four digits should be numeric and the system needs to offer a new matter incremented by one from the last matter number, however the user can override the matter number. Changes in the matter number and other associated information must be logged and reported on and can only be performed by Uses with sufficient security access.

As well as an identifying matter number, matters will also have Re: Lines.  These Re lines form an essential part of the firm’s matter management, understanding, communication and identification.  There is allowance for multiple matter lines and is a field that will often be searched upon and referred to within law firms.

Once a matter has been created, various work, time and documents are recorded on that matter.  Changes will be continuously made and saved on that matter with clients sometimes being billed throughout the life cycle of the matter.  A ‘small’ matter may involve one bill, however a ‘big’ or complex matter may involve multiple bills.

Once the matter is completed, it can be archived, completing the life cycle of a matter in the system.   Please refer to the Matters screen and relevant pull-aparts.

Examples of different matter types include:

• Property Law        
• Family Law
• Criminal
• Wills & Estates
• Commercial Litigation 

Matter Creation